Struggling with Digestion on a Vegan Diet? Uncover Solutions for Relief
In the world of health and wellness, the condition of our fingernails can often provide insights into our overall nutritional status. A recent analysis of various studies sheds light on the relationship between fingernail issues and deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals.
One common type of fingernail ridge, the vertical ridges, are often associated with deficiencies in vitamin B12 and iron. These nutrients play a crucial role in delivering oxygen to the body and maintaining healthy nails. Their absence can result in ridges along the nails [1][5].
Horizontal ridges, also known as Beau’s lines, can appear after illness, stress, or malnutrition, including zinc deficiency [5].
Other vitamin-related nail changes include brittle, thin, splitting nails due to a deficiency in biotin (vitamin B7), iron, or vitamin E [1]. Yellowish nails may indicate low levels of zinc or vitamin B12 [4]. Moreover, nail brittleness and slow growth can be linked to deficiencies in iron, zinc, calcium, and various vitamins such as A, B, C, and E [3].
The table below summarises the types of fingernail issues and their associated deficiencies:
| Type of Fingernail Issue | Associated Vitamin(s)/Mineral(s) Deficiency | | --- | --- | | Vertical ridges | Vitamin B12, Iron | | Horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) | Zinc, general malnutrition or illness | | Brittle, thin, splitting nails | Biotin (B7), Iron, Vitamin E | | Nail discoloration (yellow) | Zinc, Vitamin B12 |
Improving diet or using supplements can help address these deficiencies, thereby improving nail health and reducing ridging [1][3][5]. If you notice fingernail ridges, it is advisable to consider nutrient deficiencies such as vitamin B12 and iron as potential causes and discuss with a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and management.
It is essential to remember that this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. For any serious medical symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is crucial. The National Library of Medicine provides a list of signs for emergency medical attention, which can be a valuable resource in such situations [2].
References:
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
- The National Library of Medicine
- The Institute of Medicine
- The Linus Pauling Institute
- The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Science reveals a connection between fingernail issues and deficiencies in various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, zinc, biotin (vitamin B7), and vitamin E in the realm of health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise. Addressing these nutrient deficiencies through diet improvements or supplements could potentially improve nail health and reduce ridging.
